The concept of opus proprium is often understood in relation to the idea of vocation, which in the religious sense refers to the divine call or invitation to a particular state or course of life, such as marriage, priesthood, or monasticism. However, opus proprium is not limited to these specific vocations, but rather applies to the unique call that each person receives to live out their life in a faithful and responsible way, according to their gifts, talents, and circumstances.
In its broadest sense, opus proprium can be understood as the unique contribution that each person is called to make to the world and to the human community. This may involve specific roles or professions, creative endeavors, acts of service, or simply the way in which a person lives their life and interacts with others. The specific nature of one's opus proprium is understood to be revealed through discernment and reflection, as well as through prayer and dialogue with God or other sources of wisdom and guidance.
The idea of opus proprium emphasizes the individual responsibility and agency of each person to discover and fulfill their vocation, and highlights the unique and irreplaceable role that each person plays in contributing to the growth, flourishing, and transformation of the world.